Understanding how 4-H project clubs affect youth's confidence toward STEM-based initiatives and career opportunities

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop an understanding of how the establishment of a STEM-focused 4-H project club would affect youth's confidence towards STEM based initiatives and career opportunities. Additionally, how youth Guardian's perceptions of 4-H materials would be affected through engagement with their youth in said 4-H project club. This Action Research Project (ARP) included the development and facilitation of a STEM Focused 4-H project club. Youth participants ranged from ages eight to sixteen and attended at least four out of the five STEM focused 4-H workshops over the course of five weeks. Eligible youth earned an overnight trip to Montana State University in Bozeman to tour the 4-H center and STEM related departments, along with a visit to Museum of the Rockies. Throughout the course of this ARP, youth and their guardians participated in both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods including pre and post Likert-surveys, journal entries, mid-way assessments, and exit interviews. Statistical analysis of the data showed that a majority of youth exhibited a change in their application of STEM topics to their everyday life. Additionally, youths' general mood when completing the STEM workshop tasks were overwhelmingly positive. Given the number of participants for this ARP, the information gathered is not generalizable; however, these results provide for a better understanding of how a STEM-focused 4-H project club influenced youth in Lake County.